Friday, January 15, 2016

Machangulo Beach Lodge sits on a beautiful peninsula
just an hour east of Maputo

New Frontiers Tours: We're excited to see Mozambique in the Top 10 (#6!) of the New York Times '52 Places To Go in 2016' list! New Frontiers Tours recommends connecting Kruger/Sabi Sands or KwaZulu-Natal with the southern Mozambique resorts of White Pearl and Machangulo Beach Resort for an accessible bush and beach safari. White Pearl is easily accessed by road or a 2x weekly fixed-wing flight from KMIA to Maputo, followed by a helicopter transfer to the luxe property (and also is easy to combine with Phinda and Thanda by road). While White Pearl is chic and stylish, Machangulo Beach Resort has a more laid back safari lodge vibe and is an affordable option that's great for families. A Machangulo vehicle will pick up anywhere in the Kruger/Sabi Sands area and from there it's a 4ish hour drive to the Maputo Marina and then a 1 hour speed boat transfer to the lodge. Both lodges boast unique locations with untouched beaches, untamed natural forests and miles of pristine beaches. Read Sally's trip report about Machangulo on the New Frontiers Agent Zone. Also, don't forget about the twice weekly flight from KMIA to Vilanculos, allowing for an easy post-safari beach stay on Benguerra Island.

Albatros East Africa: We weren't surprised to see Kenya announced as the 'World's Leading Safari Destination' at the World Travel Awards. We love Kenya for its conservancies, diverse landscapes and accessible culture, and Albatros Travel hits all the sweet spots on their 'Kenya In Style' itinerary. Your pax will be in the lap of safari luxury with stays at Nairobi's House of Waine, Tortilis Camp in Amboseli, a cottage at Borana Lodge in Lewa and Serian Original Camp in Mara North Conservancy. The all-flying itinerary allows them to maximize their time in the bush enjoying the best Kenya has to offer! This itinerary can be booked as is or further customized to your guests.

Serene Akagera NP in Rwanda now has a growing pride of lions

Classic Africa Safaris: Lonely Planet has named Akagera NP in Rwanda to the list of 'best new experiences' of 2016 (#3 of 31!). Seasoned Africa travelers will especially appreciate this remote and unspoiled park. Seven lions were successfully reintroduced in July and the males and females have already met up, so there is hope for a litter or two of cubs this year! Classic Africa Safaris suggests that a visit to the highly rated Ruzizi Lodge just might be the most relaxing getaway in Rwanda.

Ultimate Safaris: Happy news out of Namibia where Ultimate Safaris' support of Save the Rhino Trust is making a significant difference to wildlife. Despite a sharp spike in 2014, rhino poaching rates were significantly reduced in 2015 in north-west Namibia. Funding provided by Ultimate's Conservation Travel Foundation and TOSCO (Tourism Supporting Conservation) have helped establish a series of strategically-positioned remote fly camps in the rhino range and dozens of new canvas tents that have improved the safety and comfort for patrol teams. Guests can participate in conservation in action when tracking desert-adapted rhino with Save the Rhino Trust from the exceptional Desert Rhino Camp in Damaraland.

Sibs Sibanda, Imvelo's head Hwange guide

Imvelo Safari Lodges: Enhance your client's Zimbabwe safari with a dedicated Professional Guide for the duration of their trip with Imvelo Safari Lodges. Their guides' knowledge and passion for the wildlife, conservation and understanding of rural communities and local culture, adds another, deeper dimension to a safari. A private guide and vehicle cost $250 per day (max 6 per vehicle), a small price to pay for their knowledge, expertise and personal attention! Get to know the Imvelo guide team, starting with head Hwange guide, Sibahle 'Sibs' Sibanda. Sibs tells us a bit about himself on our blog.

For more information on any of the updates included above, please contact the Kusini Collection or your tour consultant at the appropriate operator.